Southern California -- this just in

Obama traffic gridlock expected during West Hollywood visit

The Westside is bracing for a return engagement of Obama-jam as the president visits Monday for fundraising events, including one at the House of Blues in West Hollywood.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department warned motorists to expect major traffic delays throughout the afternoon and into the evening not only in West Hollywood but also in surrounding areas in Los Angeles and Beverly Hills.

"Local access will be restricted in some areas," the department said in a statement Sunday. "Residents, businesses and visitors to West Hollywood are strongly encouraged to plan ahead to avoid any inconveniences."

The impact could begin as early as morning rush hour; San Vicente Boulevard will be closed between Santa Monica Boulevard and Melrose Avenue from 6 a.m. Monday to noon Tuesday.

Motorists hoping for shortcuts will be disappointed. Shutdowns will be in effect on Olive Drive from Sunset to Santa Monica Boulevard, on Holloway Drive from Sunset to La Cienega, on Fountain Avenue from La Cienega to Sweetzer Avenue, and on De Longpre Avenue from Fountain Avenue to Flores Street.

The president is visiting days after his Westside campaign office was vandalized Thursday when someone shattered windows and a glass door; the suspects remain at large.